Starting coach to 5k tomorrow I really need to get fit.

[Runmandav]

Hi Iv going to start the coach to 5k tomorrow and I really need help n support. The only real problem I have is I live on a hill so Im worried about running back up to my house its quite steep. Maybe I should time that for the 5 mins cool down but it is steep so would that be a cool down tho lol. Wish me luck.

[ButtercupKid Graduate]

Welcome RMD. You’ll be fine ! The first run sets your baseline, so give it your best shot but don’t panic if it all feels awful: most of us started that way, and once you know how fit you really are you’ll be more able to set realistic targets. Personally, if faced with a big hill right at the beginning of the programme, I’d be inclined to leave it out of the run altogether. Walk down to a sensible starting place and walk up slowly after you finish. You can do this, and we’re all right behind you. Happy running 😀

[IannodaTruffe Mentor]

Welcome to the forum.

This guide to the plan is essential reading healthunlocked.com/couchto5...

You will find a way.

Enjoy your journey.

[Letty111 Graduate]

I live in a hilly area in the Peak District and try to avoid the hills as much as possible and try to do the running bits on the flatter bits even if it makes my 5 min walk home longer.

[Hidden]

I live on a hill too though I go uphill first if I'm starting from the house, but it is just as you say, thats part of my warm up and cool down. I walk to a certain point in the 5 mins ( 30mph sign at the edge of the village), run my distance and back, then walk from the 30mph sign as a cool down. It doesn't matter if you cool down going uphill. Its easy with the podcast/ app because you get timechecks regularly.

Now I've graduated I try to vary my routes ( I use mapometer to check distances), so often cadge a lift with my husband to drop me off in the next village or wherever, then run home, though always walk the last 5 mins.

[steviej99 Graduate]

Well done for starting the programme. I'm in same position on a hill. I agree that you should walk up at the end. The end of your run is naturally the hardest and you should not be attempting it at this stage. You can finish your run then walk back home as slow as you like. The incline will be equivalent to a brisk walk on the flat!

[UnfitNoMore Graduate]

Welcome

I live on a hill too, but rarely run to my house so that’s ok! Yeah, try and drop into the cooldown before facing anything too steep! Cooldown is to normalise blood flow and so as walking is low impact I think even a steep walk would count.

Enjoy the journey